Kogi troops neutralize bandits in decisive operations as Nigerian Army eliminates armed criminals and arrests logistics supplier in Kabba Bunu ambush, amid intensified anti-banditry Kogi operations, Yagba West patrols, and broader northern Nigeria security efforts that disrupt criminal hideouts.
Nigerian security forces delivered a strong message to armed bandits terrorizing rural communities, taking decisive action that left criminals neutralized and their support network weakened.
In a series of intelligence-led operations on January 3, 2026, troops from the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade based in Lokoja successfully neutralized three bandits and arrested a suspected logistics supplier across Kabba Bunu and Yagba West Local Government Areas in Kogi State.
The first encounter unfolded after troops received reliable tips about bandits relocating from Adankolo toward Agbadu Bunu. Soldiers quickly established an ambush at a strategic crossing point in Kabba Bunu LGA.
When the armed group arrived, a fierce gunbattle ensued. Two bandits were neutralized instantly, while others fled, leaving behind blood trails that troops followed during clearance operations.
Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, one magazine loaded with 99 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one locally fabricated gun, and 11 cartridges.
In a follow-up operation in Yagba West LGA, joint forces—comprising soldiers and local vigilantes—responded to reports of bandit movement near the deserted Saminaka village.
Patrols through the village and surrounding forests led to another engagement. Bandits opened fire but were overwhelmed and scattered. Troops neutralized one more bandit and recovered another AK-47 rifle with 17 rounds of ammunition.
The breakthrough extended beyond combat when authorities apprehended Sunday Adedotun, a resident of Odo Eri in Yagba West LGA. He was caught transporting cartons of energy drinks, soft drinks, bottled water, and freshly harvested farm produce—supplies believed destined for bandit camps deep in the forest.
Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade, confirmed the operations in a statement, highlighting the troops’ swift and professional execution.
Brigade Commander Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi praised the soldiers for their bravery and urged continued vigilance. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to dominating the terrain and denying criminals freedom of action.
Local residents expressed relief, with community leaders noting that such proactive operations help restore farming activities and safe movement. Many have lived in fear of kidnappings and attacks that disrupt daily life.
Security experts emphasize that targeting logistics suppliers is crucial. Cutting off food, water, and energy supplies forces bandits to abandon hideouts or risk exposure, weakening their operational capacity over time.
This success aligns with ongoing nationwide efforts to combat banditry, particularly in north-central Nigeria where dense forests provide cover for criminal groups involved in kidnapping, cattle rustling, and extortion.
For U.S. readers, Nigeria’s fight against banditry has implications for regional stability in West Africa. As a strategic partner in counter-terrorism and energy supply, a secure Nigeria supports global interests. U.S. military training programs have assisted Nigerian forces in intelligence gathering and tactical operations like these.
The arrest of enablers within communities also addresses deeper challenges, including poverty that sometimes drives locals to support criminals unwittingly or under duress.
Military authorities have assured residents of sustained patrols and encouraged the public to provide timely information through secure channels.
Investigations into the arrested supplier continue, with potential to uncover links to larger bandit networks operating across state lines.
These operations mark a positive step in restoring peace and confidence in affected areas of Kogi State.
Kogi troops neutralize bandits through targeted Kabba Bunu ambush and Yagba West patrols, arresting logistics supplier amid robust anti-banditry Kogi operations and national northern Nigeria security drive.
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